Friday, January 21, 2011

Thoughts on Legs and Back (and some Ab Ripper X, too)

Today was Legs and Back. After completing it, I realized that I had some thoughts that I needed to write down. If you are a new P90Xer, perhaps my musings will help you.

Switch Grip Pull-Ups
Wow. I REALLY can not do these. Both during the first and second set I was completely befuddled on how to manage these. Even with the assistance of a chair, I bonk on this move every time. And then, a "DOH!" moment. USE A RESISTANCE BAND, YOU NUMSKULL! Why not? I can easily throw it over the pull-up bar, drop to my knees and pull. At least this will insure that I am getting a solid workout for my back on this particular move by really being able to focus on the muscle, rather than being distracted about NOT being able to get it done on the bar.

Three-Way Lunges
This exercise does nothing for me. At least not that I can feel. It doesn't tax me (perhaps I need to do the straight-leg kick), nor am I sure if I am doing it correctly.

Sneaky Lunges
This one can be very tedious, so today I really watched my form. By the end of 20 reps I was breathing heavily. The key to this move is g o i n g s l o w l y. Go slowly (even though it takes forever) and really tighten your core and buns while you do each rep. Only then will you feel it.

So, how am I doing on Ab Ripper X?

I am still feeling fatigue in my legs and hip-flexors when I do this routine. Earlier this week I wondered if I had made any progress at all in strengthening my abs. For while my stomach has indeed deflated quite a bit, Ab Ripper X is still really challenging for me. And then, Tuesday night during Fit Club, I completed ALL of ChaLEAN Extreme's awesome Ab Burner workout. All. Of. It.

What did this mean?

My abs have gotten stronger.

Next week is my Recovery Week. I don't know what that means, but I'll follow the plan as I have been and then share with you my 30 day results at the end of the week. Right now, I'm down about 1.5 lbs a week, my arms are definitely returning to "cut", and my core is flattening back out. I see visual changes.

And mental changes? Huge.

It's funny how conquering a physical fear can make you feel like you can conquer anything.